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SAFC back domestic violence initiative

A campaign against domestic violence in South Tyneside and Sunderland has received Premier League support.

Sunderland AFC is backing the White Ribbon Campaign, which aims to ensure men take more responsibility for reducing the level of violence against women.

The campaign message will be beamed onto the Stadium of Light’s big screens before tonight’s match between Sunderland and Queens Park Rangers.

The club has also agreed to include an anti-domestic violence message in its match day programme.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, South Tyneside Council’s Lead Member Area Management and Community Safety, said: “We are delighted that the football club is lending its global reach and influence to this important campaign. Footballers are important role models and we are hoping that their support for the White Ribbon Campaign will encourage men to speak up about violence against women.

“The campaign urges men and boys to wear a white ribbon as a visible pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women. Both councils have provided white ribbons to the football club and are encouraging staff and management to wear them at tonight’s match.”

Councillor Kath Rolph, Chair of the Sunderland Domestic Violence Partnership, added: “I would like to thank everyone who is showing their support for the White Ribbon campaign. Domestic violence is still a far too under reported and hidden crime for many people and that’s why expressing solidarity against domestic violence by wearing a white ribbon is so important.”

SAFC star John O’Shea added: “We hope that by Sunderland giving its backing to the White Ribbon Campaign we can help to highlight the important work being done to combat domestic violence. Football has the power to reach out to people and the club and players are delighted to give their support to this initiative.”

White Ribbon Day occurs on November 25, which is also known as the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

It was created in 1991 by a group of Canadian men who decided they had a responsibility to urge men to speak out against violence against women.